There’s something wonderfully comforting about a homemade Applesauce Cake. Moist, tender, and warmly spiced, this classic dessert is packed with cozy flavors that make it perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee on a quiet afternoon. The addition of applesauce keeps the cake incredibly soft and flavorful while reducing the need for excessive fat, resulting in a cake that stays moist for days.

Topped with a rich and tangy Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting, this cake becomes truly irresistible. The smooth cream cheese frosting complements the sweet apple flavor and warm spices perfectly, creating a dessert that tastes like autumn in every bite. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this Applesauce Cake is sure to become a favorite recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly moist and tender texture
Easy-to-find pantry ingredients
Warm cinnamon and spice flavors
Rich cream cheese frosting
Perfect for holidays and family gatherings
Great make-ahead dessert
Delicious with coffee or tea
Stays fresh for several days

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Frosting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours

Servings

12–15 slices

Ingredients

For the Applesauce Cake

2½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup (240g) unsweetened applesauce
1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
¾ cup (180ml) vegetable oil
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins

1 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup raisins
½ cup chopped pecans

For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Optional Garnishes

Cinnamon dusting
Chopped pecans
Apple slices
Caramel drizzle

Equipment Needed

9×13-inch baking pan
Large mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooling rack
Offset spatula

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and lightly flour it or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

Flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Cloves

Set aside.

The spice blend gives the cake its signature warm and comforting flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, combine:

Applesauce
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Vegetable oil

Whisk until smooth.

Add:

Eggs
Vanilla extract

Continue mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.

Mix just until combined.

Do not overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

If using walnuts, raisins, or pecans, gently fold them into the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.

Spread evenly.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

The top should be lightly golden and spring back when touched.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Remove the cake from the oven.

Allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes.

Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely before frosting.

Warm cake can melt the frosting, so patience is important.

Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, beat together:

Cream cheese
Butter

Beat until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

Gradually add:

Powdered sugar
Cinnamon
Vanilla extract
Salt

Beat until fluffy and smooth.

If needed, add a tablespoon of milk to adjust consistency.

Step 3: Frost the Cake

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

Use an offset spatula for a smooth finish.

Step 4: Garnish

Sprinkle with:

Additional cinnamon
Chopped nuts
Caramel drizzle

for an extra-special presentation.

Tips for the Best Applesauce Cake

Use Unsweetened Applesauce

This allows you to control the sweetness of the cake.

Don’t Overmix

Mix only until the ingredients are combined.

Room Temperature Ingredients

Eggs and cream cheese blend more smoothly when at room temperature.

Let the Cake Cool Fully

A completely cooled cake ensures the frosting stays thick and creamy.

Delicious Variations

Apple Walnut Cake

Add 1 cup chopped walnuts for crunch and nutty flavor.

Applesauce Raisin Cake

Fold in 1 cup raisins for extra sweetness and texture.

Caramel Applesauce Cake

Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting before serving.

Applesauce Bundt Cake

Bake in a greased Bundt pan for 45–50 minutes.

Layer Cake Version

Divide the batter between two 8-inch round cake pans and create a beautiful layer cake.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Because of the cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is recommended.

Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting